Texas Downtown

Let's Celebrate Downtown, Y'all! CHEERS and HIGH-FIVE to our 2024 Texas Downtown President’s Award winners and finalists! These downtown awards were presented during our unforgettable Awards Gala on Tuesday, October 29, at the 2024 Texas Downtown Conference in vibrant Abilene (TX) Downtown Initiative. We couldn’t be prouder of each downtown winner and finalist—your dedication and hard work have truly earned this well-deserved recognition! Since 1986, the President’s Awards Program has celebrated the exceptional projects, places, and people shaping Texas downtowns, and this year’s winners continue that tradition with incredible achievements! This prestigious program includes 11 categories that highlight outstanding efforts in design and achievement, recognizing communities both over and under 50K population. Let’s give a big round of applause to all of this year’s Texas downtown honorees, and mark your calendars for next year! We’ll be celebrating in the City of Waco, TX downtown from November 3-5 for the 2025 Texas Downtown Conference. Can’t wait to see y’all there! #TXDPresidentsAwards #TexasDowntown #DowntownProud #TXD #CelebrateSuccess #recognition #awards

Get Ready to Celebrate 15 Years of Shop Small and Small Business Saturday in 2024! Mark your calendars for November 30 and help us in making this Small Business Saturday one that is Texas Downtown President's Award-winning! As we highlight 15 incredible years of supporting local, let's rally together to promote our vibrant downtowns and the amazing small businesses that make our Texas communities thrive. Shop Small® this holiday season with hassle-free, ready-to-use 2024 Shop Small Marketing Materials! Whether you're in retail, dining, or beauty, they've got you covered with FREE, industry-specific designs. Plus, discover educational resources and marketing tools to fuel your downtown small business growth and draw customers into our unique downtown spaces. Select, download, and start promoting today, https://lnkd.in/gb5Tewgd ! Let’s make this Small Business Saturday the biggest ever! #ShopSmall #SmallBusinessSaturday #TexasSmallBiz #TexasDowntown #TXD #DowntownPride Main Street America

What a way to kick off Tuesday a.m. at the 2024 Texas Downtown Conference with a dynamo of an Opening Keynote Speaker David Rendall! A pop of pink and lots of laughs! Let's celebrate imperfections in our downtowns, y'all! #IntentionalImperfections #TXD24 #TexasDowntown #TXD #education #resources #connections #advocacy

Welcome to Day 1 of the 2024 Texas Downtown Conference in the heart of the City of Abilene, Texas! We’re so excited to see you in the Storybook Capital of America—a place full of inspiration, creativity, and culture. Join us at the beautiful new DoubleTree by Hilton Abilene Downtown Convention Center set in Abilene’s vibrant Downtown Cultural District, the perfect backdrop for new ideas, collaboration, and innovation. Today’s Schedule Highlights: * Registration: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. * Silent Auction Item Drop-Off: 9:45 a.m. - Noon and 3:45 p.m. - 5 p.m. in Ballroom A * First Session & Exhibitor Area Open: 1 p.m. * Newcomers Reception kicks off at 5 p.m. and Opening Reception at 6 p.m. at Peacock Patio (off-site location) Let's shape the future of Texas downtowns together! See you soon! #TXD24 #AbileneTX #TexasDowntown #TXD #education #resources #connections #advocacy

Full (and Condensed) 2024 Texas Downtown Conference Schedules Now Available! Get ready for the 2024 Texas Downtown Conference with our just-released condensed Conference Schedule, designed to make the most of your time in the City of Abilene, Texas. This year’s conference will feature keynote and breakout speakers, field sessions, and tours showcasing the best of the host downtown. You can now download a printable summary of the schedule for quick reference and a DoubleTree room map to easily navigate our primary conference venue at the DoubleTree by Hilton Abilene Downtown Convention Center, 500 Cypress St., Abilene, Texas 79601. With most sessions hosted at the DoubleTree and exciting field sessions allowing attendees to explore Downtown Abilene, you’re in for a rich, immersive experience! See y'all Monday in Downtown Abilene! More info, https://lnkd.in/gB5fq8yC #TXD24 #ConferenceSchedule #TexasDowntown #TXD #education #resources #connections #advocacy Abilene (TX) Downtown Initiative

Get Ready for the 2024 Texas Downtown Conference Closing Keynote: Hometown Revival through Murals with Calina Mishay! Stay for the exciting conclusion of this year's Texas Downtown Conference with our highly anticipated Closing Keynote, "Hometown Revival through Murals", at 3:30 p.m. on Wednesday, October 30 at the DoubleTree by Hilton Abilene Downtown Convention Center's, Ballroom C & D. Renowned street artist Calina Mishay will take center stage, sharing her inspiring journey of using murals to revitalize small Texas towns. From capturing local stories to transforming walls into vibrant canvases, Calina’s work breathes life into communities, celebrating their history while inspiring hope and connection. Known for her dazzling murals featuring bold colors and intricate designs, Calina’s art reflects the heart and soul of the people she works with. But her impact goes beyond the artwork—she’s also the star of the popular TV show "Cal's Hometown Revival" This show follows her travels across Texas, where she collaborates with towns to create beautiful, larger-than-life murals that capture their unique heritage. Whether you're passionate about public art, community revitalization, or simply love hearing stories about how art can make a difference, this keynote is not to be missed. And who knows? You might just get inspired to bring Calina to your own town to leave her mark! Make sure you’re following Calina’s journey on social media @Calshometownrevival and @calinamishay for behind-the-scenes looks at her projects and ideas on how murals can ignite change in your own community. For a chance to feature your city on "Cal’s Hometown Revival," visit https://lnkd.in/grv6e2s4 and see how you can bring this exciting transformation to your town. This is your opportunity to witness the powerful intersection of art, history, and community, all wrapped up in an inspiring hour that will leave you ready to paint your town’s future in bold, beautiful strokes! See you in the City of Abilene, Texas next week! #TXD24 #ClosingKeynote #CalinaMishay #CalsHometownRevival #AbileneTX #education #resources #advocacy #connections #StreetArt #PublicArt #mural Abilene (TX) Downtown Initiative

Are You Getting Excited for Next Week in the City of Abilene, Texas, Texas Downtowners? Don’t Miss Our Opening Conference Keynote Speaker! Join us for an unforgettable start to the 2024 Texas Downtown Conference with keynote speaker David Rendall! If you’re looking to spark creativity, drive innovation, enhance your marketing strategies, and truly captivate your locals, visitors, and customers, this session is a must-attend. David Rendall brings a bold approach to helping organizations and businesses stand out in today’s crowded marketplace. His keynote will delve into the concepts of "Pink Goldfish," a unique eight-part framework that teaches programs how to embrace their flaws for competitive advantage. With over 200 case studies to support his message, David will inspire you to look at differentiation from a fresh perspective—embracing what makes you different rather than trying to fix it. David’s impressive background spans two decades of experience speaking around the world, working with prestigious clients like the U.S. Air Force, the Australian Government, and Fortune 500 companies including Microsoft and State Farm Insurance. In addition to his time as a leadership professor and stand-up comedian, he managed nonprofits focused on employment for people with disabilities, and he's competed in ultramarathons and Ironman triathlons. David holds a doctorate in organizational leadership and a graduate degree in psychology, and he is the author of four impactful books: "Pink Goldfish", "The Four Factors of Effective Leadership", "The Freak Factor", and "The Freak Factor for Kids". Don’t miss the chance to learn from one of the BEST—this keynote could change how you approach your downtown and community! Find out more about David and his work at www.drendall.com Mark your calendars now for the opening keynote session starting at 9 a.m. on Tuesday, October 29 at the DoubleTree by Hilton Abilene Downtown Convention Center's Ballroom C & D after the 8 a.m. Welcome Breakfast. Also, the Keynote Speaker Workshop at 10:15 a.m. at Gateway C. #TXD24 #KeynoteSpeaker #DavidRendall #TexasDowntown #TXD #education #resources #connections #advocacy Abilene (TX) Downtown Initiative The Abilene Chamber of Commerce

LAST CHANCE ALERT, Texas Downtowners! Still need tickets for the President's Awards Gala at the 2024 Texas Downtown Conference in the City of Abilene, Texas's downtown, #TXD24? Don’t worry, you’ve got until NOON this Wednesday, October 23 to grab them, so don't delay, https://lnkd.in/gkWrADgk And don’t forget to plan for the Awards Gala pre-party! Join us at the Anice Read Silent Auction at 6 p.m. for adult beverages, appetizers, and a chance to mix and mingle before the big awards event! Finally, are you ready for #TXD24? With ONE WEEK until we hit the road to Abilene for the Texas Downtown Conference at the DoubleTree by Hilton Abilene Downtown Convention Center (a cashless hotel, so bring your card/s), here’s your checklist to get prepped and packed: 1. Register for the conference and grab those last-minute Awards Gala tickets by Wednesday. 2. Submit your Silent Auction item by this Thursday, October 24. And bring cash/checks to avoid transaction fees on silent auction item purchases (there is an ATM in the hotel), 3. Review the final Conference Schedule to plan your must-see sessions. 4. Pack your phone charger—you'll want to capture and share all the inspiration with #TXD24 on socials! 5. Bring business cards for networking—connections are key in the downtown world, 6. Wear your walking boots or shoes—explore downtown Abilene and get those steps in! 7. Pack for all weather—because Texas, enough said. See you next Monday in Abilene for what’s sure to be an amazing week! Let’s hit the road, Texas Downtown fam! #TXD24 #TXDPresidentsGala #AbileneTX #TexasDowntown #TXD The Abilene Chamber of Commerce

Hey, Texas Downtowners! Get Ready for an Unforgettable Adventure in the City of Abilene, Texas... Welcome to Abilene, y'all! This year’s 2024 Texas Downtown Conference is set in the heart of West Texas, where frontier spirit meets authentic charm. Whether you're networking with fellow professionals or exploring the city’s vibrant offerings, Downtown Abilene has something for everyone! Stroll through their historic streets, enjoy one-of-a-kind dining spots, or dive into their lively arts scene. Looking for some relaxation? Take a peaceful walk through their beautifully restored downtown—it’s picture-perfect and Insta-worthy! With its rich heritage and unmatched Texas hospitality, Abilene is ready to make your stay as memorable as it is inspiring. Get ready to experience the best of what West Texas has to offer. They can't wait to welcome you! See y'all soon! #TXD24 #AbileneTX #DowntownAbilene #WestTexasCharm #FrontierSpirit #AbileneAdventure #TexasDowntown #TXD x#ProfessionalDevelopmenthttps://lnkd.in/gT3spXt3

Calling all Texas Downtown community and business members! It's time to rally for this year's Anice Read Silent Auction! Ready to help make a BIG impact on downtown projects across Texas? Donate a silent auction item TODAY for the Anice Read Fund—our largest annual fundraiser happening at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, October 29 before the President's Awards Gala at the Texas Downtown Conference in the City of Abilene, Texas's downtown. Why donate? For every $1 invested in the Anice Read Fund, there’s a $30 reinvestment in Texas downtowns! That’s some serious ROI! So, hit the "Easy" button and submit your auction item details no later than Thursday, October 24 in the spreadsheet, https://lnkd.in/e7-Dis4J so all you need to do is drop your item off in Abilene OR mail it ahead of time to arrive by the same deadline. Here’s where to send it: Amy Miller 313 West 4th Street Elgin, TX 78621 Need ideas? Think light, local, and fun! Jewelry, handmade items, Texas-made adult beverages, trips and travel experiences, or even quirky antiques are top sellers. Pro tip: Bring cash/checks to make purchases—no transaction fees means more funds go directly to the Anice Read Fund! Help us continue awarding these impactful downtown grants annually! Let's make this year's auction the best one yet. Thank you to the following downtowns who have currently made an Anice Read Fund Silent Auction item donation: City of Elgin, TX, Center City of Amarillo, City of Weatherford, City of Georgetown, City of Mesquite, City of Fate, City of Mineral Wells, City of Odessa, Texas, City of Cuero, City of Abilene, Texas, City of Ennis, City of Nacogdoches, Texas, and City of Aubrey! We appreciate y'all supporting TXD Co-Founder Anice Read's legacy! #TXD24 #AniceReadFund #GrantFundraiser #SilentAuction #HappyHour #TexasDowntown #TXD #resources #education #advocacy #connections